The threat also targeted Ardis’ wife and family, according to a copy the mayor emailed to the Journal Star.

Ardis sent the email about five minutes after he received it from a city staff member. The city received it about noon, apparently through its website.

Ardis has been the focus of national and international attention since last week. That’s when it was revealed his complaints about a parody Twitter account resulted in a police investigation and officers’ search of a West Bluff house in pursuit of the perpetrators.

Peoria County State’s Attorney Jerry Brady said Thursday he doesn’t plan to file charges in the Twitter case.

Police are investigating Friday’s email threat, according to Ardis. In an email, Police Chief Steve Settingsgaard stated he could not comment.

Anyone with information about this case can call the police department, 673-4521.